3. When Reality Flickers — Gaslighting, Narcissism, and Understanding the Psychology Behind the Words | And What True Self-Love Really Is

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of MOHIvate, Dr Mohi Sarawgee unpacks two of the most overused — and misunderstood — psychological buzzwords: narcissism and gaslighting — words we throw around far too easily.From Greek myths to Freud’s theories, and from modern psychiatry to everyday relationships, she explores where these words came from, what they truly mean, and why using them lightly can blur our understanding of real human behaviour.We also explore the crucial difference between narcissism as a human trait and Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD)as a clinical condition — because while one can bruise egos, the other can deeply wound relationships.Through stories, warmth, and science, this episode is a gentle reminder that real self-love always leaves room for someone else — and that sometimes, coming home to yourself begins with seeing clearly again.Because real health, like real love, always begins with awareness and compassion.💬 If You Need SupportIf anything in this episode resonates and you’d like to talk to someone, please reach out — you’re not alone.🌍 InternationalBefrienders Worldwide – Global directory of emotional support helplines.www.befrienders.org🇬🇧 United KingdomSamaritans – Call 116 123 (free, 24/7). samaritans.orgMind – Call 0300 123 3393 or text 86463. mind.org.ukNHS Urgent Mental Health Helplines – nhs.uk/mental-health🇺🇸 United States988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 (24/7, free). 988lifeline.orgNAMI HelpLine – Call 1-800-950-NAMI (6264). nami.org/help🇮🇳 IndiaAASRA – Call 91-9820466726 (24/7). aasra.infoiCALL – Call +91 9152987821, Mon–Sat 10am–8pm. icallhelpline.org🇦🇺 AustraliaLifeline – Call 13 11 14 (24/7). lifeline.org.au🇨🇦 Canada988 Suicide Crisis Helpline – Call or text 988 (24/7). 988lifeline.org🇸🇬 SingaporeSamaritans of Singapore (SOS) – Call 1-767 (24/7). sos.org.sgReferences & Further ReadingMerriam-Webster (2022). Word of the Year: Gaslighting. https://www.merriam-webster.comSweet, P. L. (2019). The Sociology of Gaslighting. https://doi.org/10.1177/0003122419874843Abramson, K. (2014). Turning Up the Lights on Gaslighting. https://doi.org/10.1111/phpe.12074Freud, S. (1914). On Narcissism: An Introduction. https://doi.org/10.1037/11390-001American Psychiatric Association. (2013). DSM-5. https://www.psychiatry.org/psychiatrists/practice/dsmNeff, K. D. (2011). Self-Compassion. https://self-compassion.org/book/Brown, B. (2010). The Gifts of Imperfection. https://brenebrown.com/book/the-gifts-of-imperfection/Just a gentle reminder: this episode is for information, education, and inspiration only. It’s not a substitute for your doctor’s advice. For any personal health concerns, always seek guidance from your doctor.